"Orthopaedics at Raigmore - can't praise them enough "

I had an accident when working at a farm in March this year which regrettably involved crushing my finger and tearing the end off. I attended Raigmore A&E immediately and was admitted for theatre that night. Dr Garth attended A&E and explained all what would be happening and gave an estimate of time for theatre. At that point, I didn’t want to hear the details as it was upsetting to hear, he couldn’t have been more understanding of this and I felt understood my thoughts.

In theatre, again the staff were very informative and I couldn’t have asked for a better service. I am still surprised looking back how relaxed I was before surgery after being with them! They took the time to discuss the steps with me and helped me relax, I didn’t have any worries going into theatre which was all due to their care.

Dr James Simpson spoke with me prior to theatre, he was informative and asked what my main priority was for the finger, taking in to consideration my job and age. After the operation the ward staff took my blood pressure throughout the night and every time they did they were incredibly careful and thoughtful towards other patients and me. All the staff were incredibly caring and the next day before I was discharged home, they were on hand constantly to offer help with dressing, eating etc.

Since returning home I attended Orthopaedics outpatients weekly for a dressing change by the nursing staff. Dr Simpson checked in on my finger most weeks and again, I cannot fault the care and attention the nursing staff gave me. The same nurses tried to see me each week to see the progress which I felt was considerate of them.

After the dressing was removed for the final time, I was referred to physiotherapy. Again, the physiotherapist I saw was very knowledgeable and intrigued to see how the healing process had worked.

Twelve weeks on from my accident I had a follow-up with Dr Simpson and have no more appointments required. In such a short space of time I cannot be happier with this result. Next year I am getting married and after losing the end of the finger on my left hand, obviously was a worrying thought for me. By then, I doubt I will even notice the difference in appearance. Although I wish the accident hadn’t happened, I can’t explain how relieved I am to have my finger look and function the way it does. I greatly value the care staff have provided for me.

Many thanks again to all staff